Freeride
Freeride skiing is performed on natural, ungroomed terrain without a set course. The sport is about celebrating the natural terrain features on the mountainside in the most elemental format. Skiers choose impossible lines through cornices and cliff faces with big jumps and lots of excitement. Freeride athletes look for the bumpy, rowdy freeride terrain that challenges them to be the best athletes they can be.
Before starting in the Freeride program, athletes must be advanced skiers who can comfortably ski off piste and put their skis back on in soft snow unassisted. At SBA, athletes start in the Elementary Downhill program at age 5, then transition into the Junior Freeride program at age 10. Athletes start by building skills off piste and in the air with a focus on skills needed to compete on the competitive freeride circuit.
As athletes advance, they learn to hone their air skills while continuing to build their all mountain skiing skills. They learn how to approach more difficult terrain why they continue focusing on fun and adventure. Athletes are highly encouraged to compete in local Tahoe Junior Freeride Series events. More competitive athletes will also have opportunities to compete on the national and international stage.
Ages 5-9
The Downhill - Primary program is an entry level program that focuses on phases 1-2 of the US Ski & Snowboard Alpine Training System. Our elementary teams have 51 on-snow days with an emphasis on mileage and adventure while acquiring basic skills through games and drills. Athletes on elementary teams have fun skiing all over the mountain with positive coaching and enthusiastic support.
Ages 5-9 as of December 31, 2024
Ages 10-13
The Downhill - Junior program is an advanced program focused on phases 2-3 of the US Ski & Snowboard Freeski Training System. We have weekend and expanded teams available for the junior program, with 65 to 93 on-snow days. Junior athletes may also participate in the Winter program, which offers world-class athletics and college preparatory academics on the same mountain. Athletes learn and improve basic air skills and ski technique while also learning how to approach difficult terrain and understanding freeride judging criteria. Competition in local TJFS events is highly encouraged. Our coaches promote fun, inclusivity, and adventure in a positive environment where athletes learn what grit, grace, and courage look like off piste.
Ages 10-13 as of December 31, 2024
Ages 14-19
The Downhill - Senior program is an advanced program focused on phases 3-4 of the US Ski & Snowboard Freeski Training System. We have weekend and expanded teams available for the senior program, with 65 to 93 on-snow days. Senior athletes may also participate in the Winter or Full Year program, which offers world-class athletics and college preparatory academics on the same mountain. Athletes continue to progress to the steepest and most exposed portions of the mountain and are focused on polishing and refining movements with increased attention to precision technique and advanced tactical development. Athletes compete in regional and national events with a goal of making the North American Championships, World Championships, and the Freeride World Tour.
Ages 14-19 as of December 31, 2024